Adel Al-Shteiwi stands as one of Libya’s most influential sports figures, embodying a rare fusion of distinguished sports journalism and modern sports administration. His career is a powerful narrative of dedication and professionalism, cementing his place as a model for serving Libyan football. This journey has now led him to a pivotal role at the heart of the national governing body, the Libyan Football Federation (LFF).
From Media Acumen to Global Standards
Al-Shteiwi began his professional life in sports media, quickly establishing a strong presence across Libyan channels and local newspapers. He was recognized for the accuracy and professionalism of his reporting, which garnered him attention on both the Arab and international stages. This robust media background was the foundation for his transition into administrative roles. He served as the Official Spokesman for Al-Ahly Club in Tripoli before taking over the management of the club’s media center, where he significantly enhanced media communication and the professional coverage of the club’s events, contributing to the club’s positive image.
Driven by a commitment to excellence and the need for global standards, Al-Shteiwi sought rigorous professional development. He successfully completed the prestigious FIFA Diploma in Sports Management, acquiring extensive expertise in sports law, governance, and sports marketing. Further enhancing his profile, he secured a Sports Law Diploma and specialized in player rehabilitation, building a comprehensive knowledge base vital for modern football administration. His dedication to the field is underscored by his active memberships in the International Association of Sports Press (AIPS) and the Arab Federation for Sports Journalism, alongside receiving the Sports Institutions Management Certificate from the International Olympic Committee. This comprehensive background, marrying media relations, management theory, and legal frameworks, is the unique competence he brings to national sports leadership.
Leading the Libyan Football Federation Forward
Today, Adel Al-Shteiwi holds the critical dual roles of Director of External Relations and Advisor to the Board of Directors within the Libyan Football Federation. This position is the culmination of his diverse experience, allowing him to supervise international cooperation files, governance, and the development of strategic projects. In his own words, he believes his strength lies in “combining media experience and administrative competence, field work and sports diplomacy.” He is committed to presenting an honorable image of Libyan football and forging partnerships that open new horizons for the country’s sport.
His international experience, especially as a FIFA Diploma holder, has equipped him with a necessary global vision, enabling him to manage media files professionally, deal effectively with international sports institutions, and apply a deep understanding of the legal and regulatory frameworks governing modern football. This background is now the mainstay of his daily work, driving the LFF’s efforts to strengthen its presence regionally and continentally. Furthermore, his career indicates a wide network of relationships, including cooperation with the United Group and special appreciation from His Highness Prince Abdullah bin Musaed, which adds significant weight to his work.
Vision 2025–2028: A Blueprint for Transformation
Al-Shteiwi’s current mandate is focused on executing the LFF’s comprehensive strategy, the Vision 2025–2028, designed to tackle the systemic challenges facing Libyan football. These significant challenges include poor infrastructure, administrative instability, limited funding, weak competition organization, governance deficits, and the lack of development programs for technical personnel and women’s football.
The vision outlines an aggressive plan for transformation, with key elements including:
- Infrastructure Development: This involves establishing and raising the efficiency of major stadiums through partnerships and launching the “Academy with All Logic” program, building on recent successes like the reopening of the Benghazi International Stadium and planned projects like the Ajdabiya International Stadium.
- Professional External Communication: A key initiative is establishing an International Media Center to ensure professional communication, issue bilingual press releases, and manage effective official accounts on social media, using attractive video content to highlight Libyan talent and future projects.
- Strategic Partnerships: The LFF intends to sign memorandums of cooperation with strong regional federations, such as Saudi Arabia and Egypt, and maximize benefits from programs like FIFA Forward and cooperation with the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to support academy development and raise technical standards.
- Talent Marketing and Competitions: The strategy includes creating an official platform to market Libyan players internationally, improving the quality of television broadcasting for the league, and professionalizing the organization of tournaments and international friendly matches. The LFF also plans to implement a new selection rule for the national team based on accurate follow-up and announced plans, aiming for a stable 3-4 year national project focused on qualification for major tournaments.
Building a Sustainable Future
Adel Al-Shteiwi’s ultimate vision is to build a modern, stable, and sustainable football system, one that relies on scientific planning and investment in talent and infrastructure. This vision is founded on four core principles: Professionalism in management, developing talents and age groups, raising the quality of local competitions, and investing in infrastructure and technology. This approach extends to strengthening grassroots sports by establishing mini-stadiums, launching school and university programs, and supporting academies to ensure a clear path for talent and professionalism. Through disciplined work, international representation, and a commitment to continuous development, Adel Al-Shteiwi is leading the charge to elevate Libyan football to its natural place regionally and continentally.
Fabris Kehdinga.
